After updating your iPhone 17 or the Spotify app, you might notice your music randomly pausing or stopping on its own. This can happen during playback, when switching apps, or even when the screen turns off.
It’s often caused by permission issues, background app refresh settings, or outdated cache data that conflict with the new software. The good news is, you can fix it quickly with a few simple steps.
Why Spotify Pauses on iPhone 17 After an Update
- Background App Refresh is turned off.
- Spotify doesn’t have the required permissions.
- Battery optimization or Low Power Mode limits app activity.
- Bluetooth or audio output conflicts.
- Corrupted cache or outdated app data.
Allow Spotify to Refresh in the Background.
If Background App Refresh is disabled, Spotify may stop when you switch apps or lock your screen. Enabling it lets Spotify keep streaming even when it’s not active on the screen.
- Open Settings, and then tap General.
- Tap Background App Refresh, and then ensure it’s enabled for Spotify.
Once turned on, reopen Spotify and test if playback continues when you leave the app.
Check Battery Settings.
When your iPhone enters Low Power Mode, it limits background processes, which can pause Spotify playback.
- Open Settings, and then tap Battery.
- Turn off Low Power Mode, and then relaunch Spotify.
This ensures your iPhone allows continuous music playback without interruptions.
Reconnect or Reset Bluetooth Devices.
If you are using wireless earphones or speakers, Bluetooth glitches after an update may cause sudden pauses. Reconnecting helps reestablish a stable connection.
- Open Settings, and then tap Bluetooth.
- Tap the information icon (i) next to your connected device, and then tap Forget This Device.
Reconnect your headphones or speaker and see if the problem disappears.
Update or Reinstall Spotify.
App updates often fix compatibility bugs caused by iOS updates. If the issue appeared right after a system upgrade, reinstalling can refresh Spotify’s data.
- Touch and hold the Spotify app icon on your Home screen, and then tap Remove App.
- Tap Delete App, and then reinstall Spotify from the App Store.
Log in again and test music playback to confirm the issue is gone.
Disable Automatic Audio Routing.
Sometimes, iOS automatically redirects audio to other apps or devices, interrupting Spotify playback. Disabling this feature can help keep your music stable.
- Open Settings, and then tap Accessibility.
- Tap Audio/Visual, and then adjust Audio Routing to Automatic or Bluetooth Headset only.
This prevents your iPhone from switching outputs unexpectedly while Spotify is playing.
Clear Spotify Cache.
Corrupted cached files may interfere with normal playback after an update. Clearing them can refresh the app without losing playlists or downloads.
- Open Spotify, and then tap your profile icon at the top left.
- Tap Settings and privacy, and then tap Storage.
Select Clear Cache and confirm. Once done, restart Spotify.
If Spotify still pauses randomly after trying these fixes, the issue may be on the app’s side. Wait for an official update or check Spotify’s support page for new patches.
FAQs
Why does Spotify stop when I open other apps on my iPhone 17?
Background App Refresh might be turned off, or Low Power Mode could be limiting Spotify’s ability to run in the background.
Will reinstalling Spotify delete my playlists?
No. Your playlists and liked songs are linked to your Spotify account, so you’ll get them back after logging in again.
Can Bluetooth settings cause Spotify to pause?
Yes. Outdated Bluetooth pairings or connection drops can cause playback interruptions. Re-pairing your device usually fixes it.
